PCM upload possible more than one time by dumping HMA?

[[StrangeByte]]

As we all know, it is possible to transfer PCM (and other format's) records done on the unit (mic/line/opt) to the PC (even though in a proprietary format that is encrypted).

As many people know, the music data is stored as HMA-files in the data area (for this reason accessible for windows). These files are encrypted.

As perhaps a few people know is that this transfer can only be done on one computer, and then a flag is set on the minidisc that prevents sonicstage from further uploads (which would enable the user to go to a buddy and upload his records on the buddie's computer). This flag is very likely stored in the HMA-files.

Well, after a lot of "intro", here's my question: Would it be possible to dump the HMA files, then upload the PCM/Hi-SP/whatever records to sonicstage, transfer the "untouched" hma files back to the disc, and.... you know what i'm trying to say?

:smile:

[Latexxx]

You can try it.

[[StrangeByte]]

unfortunately i can't: no hi-md (yet).

the only problem could be a hidden (inaccessible) sector on the hi-md that holds additional flags like this - or a key - or anything.

But generally i'm interested in hma-hacking to create a whole new 'clean' software that doesn't need anything from sony (except for the atrac encoder perhaps)

I know that this isn't an easy job... of course not. But that are just ideas... :smile:

[jadeclaw]

I've tried to copy a Hi-MD formatted MD by copying the HiMD-folder onto the PC and copying it back to a different MD.

Doesn't work. I'm sure, there is a hidden area, that cannot be accessed in storage mode.

[[StrangeByte]]

sh!t... same old crap as with MS Walkman...

[Markr041]

I also tried copying audio HiMD disks using explorer with no luck, including standard hidden files

How about a bit-image copy, however, using Ghost of Drive Image? This clones the disk, an exact image copy. Anyone tried that?

[Ryzir]

I tired using Backup Utility in windows with no luck. The minidisc player gives a No Track error message.

[[StrangeByte]]

Backup programs and similar won't help you...

you would need direct access to the bitstream on the disc, and the supplied drivers don't allow access to that area (without authentication by, for example, sonicstage)

:wacky: